Destination-inspired venue styling OCT/NOV 2026 £3.55 How social media is reshaping the wedding venue industry WIN! A HONEYMOON IN THE SEYCHELLES SUSSEXWEDDING EFFECT The Insta Dazzle in a dress with decorative detailing THE DETAIL All in BEYOND BORDERS
Host your Celebration at the Oldest Pub in Brighton First floor venue available for exclusive hire, late license and is perfect for Weddings, Engagement parties and other celebrations. Three stylish interlinked rooms holding up to 70 people with buffet or canapes, or 45 for a sit down meal. Private Bar Sound System & TV Bespoke Food & Drink Options Intimate wedding venue set in the heart of 'The Lanes' We’re just a stones throw away from Brighton Town Hall and the famous Brighton Bandstand so the perfect venue for your memorable wedding reception. The Greene Room @ The Cricketers 15 Black Lion Street, Brighton, BN1 1ND www.cricketersbrighton.co.uk 01273 329472 Visit our website now for more details or drop us an email info@cricketersbrighton.co.uk
Your Sussex Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your Sussex Wedding is published six times a year. ISSN 1750-3477 @CountyWeddingMagazines @countyweddingmagazines @countyweddingmagazines Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding EDITORIAL Deputy Managing Editor Kelly Andrews | 01376 535 611 kelly.andrews@county.wedding Autumn is finally here – my favourite season! And it seems it’s not just a favourite with me, as it’s becoming an increasingly popular time of year to get married. So, what’s so great about these months when it comes to tying the knot? For a start, the temperature is a lot more favourable. Even though it’s still warm during September, the heat has a friendlier feel about it, rather than the oppressive temperatures of summer. Then, moving into October and November, we have the cosy atmosphere created by roaring fires and candlelight, along with the stunning natural backdrops as the colours start to change to rich shades of amber and gold. I adore the new, imaginative palettes couples are coming up with for their autumn nuptials. For 2026, the trend is moving away from predictable burnt orange and burgundy towards richer, more nuanced palettes featuring earthy neutrals, jewel tones and unexpected pops of colour. Browns have become a key feature rather than just an accent, while plum, olive and espresso is emerging as a standout combination. I hope you’ll find plenty of wedspiration in this issue, whatever time of year you’ve chosen for your wedding. As ever, enjoy and keeeep planning! Kelly Andrews, editor Shades of autumn Kelly x On the cover This issue’s cover features real wedding couple Emma and Ryan, who tied the knot at Southend Barns (southendbarns.co.uk). The two were beautifully captured by Aby-Joanne Photography (abyjoannephotography.co.uk). Discover the story of their day from page 32. We’re swooning over this season’s top colour combo: plum, espresso, and olive. Trend tip £6, bmstores.co.uk £4, bmstores.co.uk £11.95, thewisteriatree.co.uk richardandersonltd.com rebeccavallance.com/en-uk rebeccavallance.com/en-uk ADVERTISING Account Manager Dannii Carr | 01376 535 610 dannii.carr@county.wedding EDITOR’S LETTER 3
Regulars 3 EDITOR’S LETTER A warm welcome from Kelly 7 NEARLYWED NEWS Catch up on news from around the county 101 COMPETITION Win a seven-night all-inclusive honeymoon at Club Med Seychelles In this issue... OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026 Venues 13 SPOTLIGHT ON... EAST SUSSEX Tie the knot in a local hotspot 18 THE INSTAGRAM EFFECT ON WEDDING VENUES How social media is reshaping the industry WIN A SEVEN-NIGHT ALL-INCLUSIVE HONEYMOON AT CLUB MED SEYCHELLES Features 39 WISTFUL WISTERIA Wisteria-inspired elegance with a subtle nod to Bridgerton 44 THE END OF PERFECT We explore how couples are falling out of love with perfection and choosing documentary wedding photography 49 BEYOND BORDERS Love to travel? Bring the vibe of your favourite overseas destination to your British big day 54 KEEP IT PERSONAL Experts are warning couples not to rely on AI to write one of the most personal parts of their big day – their vows Win! 101 13 26 80 vpphotography.pics rachaelbarronphotography.co.uk 4
Real weddings 26 THINK PINK Since they now reside in Australia, it was important to Megan and Kian to have a quintessentially British wedding day 32 A TALE OF TWO WEDDINGS Emma and Ryan met at a friend’s wedding and before they knew it, it was time to plan their own! Honeymoons 88 THE WORLD’S BEST HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS A look at a new data study by global travel experts Holafly 90 MOROCCAN HIDEAWAY Discover a romantic Moroccan hideaway where beachside tranquillity meets culture, adventure and exceptional hospitality 94 LOVE IN THE FLORENCE HILLS For couples seeking romance beyond the city crowds, Il Salviatino offers timeless Tuscan charm with unforgettable views 98 COASTAL CALM AND CASTLE VIEWS Set on the edge of the Conwy Estuary, The Quay Hotel combines waterfront luxury with some of North Wales’ most captivating views 39 Grooms 75 GROOMS’ NEWS The latest best buys and product launches 76 CREAM OF THE CROP This dapper selection of groom’s attire will see out the last of the summer sun before autumnal hues take over 78 FASHION FAUX PAS How to avoid the most common mistakes when choosing a men’s suit 49 32 Fashion & Beauty 56 FASHION FOCUS The latest bridal news, buys and launches 59 ALL IN THE DETAIL These dreamy dresses have been expertly crafted with exquisite details, from bows and buttons to crystals and pearls 67 A TOUCH OF COLOUR Whether it’s pink, peach or blue, wedding dresses are embracing seasonal shades 72 BEST-DRESSED GUEST Gold, green, amber and mustard are the hottest hues this season 80 BEAUTY BUZZ The latest best buys and must haves 82 FACIALIST TO FORMULATOR Debbie Thomas, founder of new skincare brand Cellis, brings us a fascinating clinical masterclass 86 WHEN ALL EYES ARE ON YOU Annette Williams of Silverbrook Hypnotherapy tells us why weddings can trigger confidence anxiety icphotographics.co.uk 94 unsplash.com@jonathanborba abyjoannephotography.co.uk CONTENTS 5
Picturesque function rooms and romantic outdoor ceremony lawn, nestled within a tranquil tree-lined glade Ceremony room, reception rooms, picturesque courtyard, outdoor ceremony lawn, lakes, getting ready room, bar & restaurant, 26 hotel rooms, 7 self-catering lodges, health club, swimming pool, beauty salon & 27 holes of golf Cottesmore Hotel Golf & Country Club, Buchan Hill, Pease Pottage, Crawley, West Sussex, RH11 9AT T: 01293 528256 E: events@cottesmoregolf.co.uk W: www.cottesmoregolf.co.uk A beautiful country wedding venue set within 180 acres of Sussex countryside Licensed for up to 150 guests Photography by: Jacob Malinski Photography, Dominic Smith Photography, Surrey and Sussex Wedding Photography
So spa, so good Self-care just became more affordable at Ockenden Manor! Become a spa member before 31st October 2026 and save £500. The venue’s spa membership lets you enjoy daily use of the spa, swimming pools and gym facilities. Individual and joint memberships are available. Plus, members enjoy additional benefits across all Historic Sussex Hotels and restaurants. Terms and conditions apply. Find out more at hshotels.co.uk/ockenden-manor/offers Shaken not stirred Shaken, Steamed & Spun is a new mobile event bar from Battle-based Astral Alchemy covering Sussex and Kent. The beautifully converted vintage horsebox was launched at its first public event, The Folk & Fable Festival, in Battle in August. Bringing something new to the local wedding scene, Shaken, Steamed & Spun provides a unified, three-in-one experience featuring highend mixology, barista-crafted coffee, and a robotcrafted candy floss vending machine that makes candy floss art in six flavours. Working with local Dedbest and Brixworth distilleries, as well as Sussex-based Liquid Spirit coffee roasters, the bar champions independent producers, reducing transport miles and serving drinks crafted with care. Find out more at astralalchemy.co.uk NEWS Nearlywed Catch up on the latest from around the county WHAT’S ON AT THE WHITE PALACE Known affectionately as the White Palace, The Grand Hotel Eastbourne is a five-star seaside retreat with a distinctly grand Victorian character. On Friday 6th November, settle in for an evening of dinner and big-band glamour with An Evening with Michael Bublé. Following a three-course dinner, tribute performer Mark Daniels, as seen on BBC and ITV, takes to the stage with the Canadian crooner’s greatest hits. Tickets cost £70 per person. For a restorative break by the Sussex coast, take advantage of The Grand Hotel Eastbourne’s Perfect Autumn Pause with up to 20 per cent off dinner, bed and breakfast options. The seasonal package includes an overnight stay, cooked and continental breakfast, £50 per adult towards dinner, plus use of the Health Club and grounds. Available until 30th November 2026, based on two adults sharing a Superior Classic Bedroom, subject to availability. Find out more at grandeastbourne.com LOCAL NEWS 7
HERE FOR THE MEMORIES What if you could actually see your guestbook messages rather than just reading them years later? Hear the voices, see the faces, watch the laughter and relive the slightly questionable messages that appear once everyone’s had a few drinks. Now you can, thanks to Bexhill-based Call Memories! The Video Guestbook Phone gives your guests the chance to leave you a personal video message throughout your wedding or event. They might choose to leave heartfelt messages, advice for married life, stories and memories, and, inevitably, absolute chaos! These messages from friends and family are ones you’ll treasure forever, because photos capture how your day looked, but video captures how it felt. Call Memories will drop it off on the day of the wedding and collect it again in the morning, leaving the two of you with a USB full of video messages and photos to enjoy. Find out more at callmemoriesbex.com Beside the seaside For couples planning a wedding, the setting is increasingly becoming more than a backdrop. Rockwater (rockwater.uk), the UK coastal hospitality brand with beachfront venues in Hove and Branksome, says this is helping reshape how couples approach weddings by the water. Rather than simply choosing a coastal venue and planning the celebration independently, couples are allowing the landscape, changing light and relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces to influence the day. A wedding celebrated on the Sussex coast can let the view do the styling. It doesn’t need to rely on nautical themes to establish a sense of place. Rockwater says one of the most effective approaches is often to allow the surroundings to provide the visual identity. Natural materials, softer tones, and more restrained styling can complement the coastline rather than compete with it. This can also create a more timeless overall look, particularly where the ceremony or reception already benefits from uninterrupted sea views. For more on planning your coastal celebration, discover the extended feature at bit.ly/4yRMWk5 Dates for the diary For our sister brand, County Wedding Events, the aim is to help you find the perfect venue and wedding suppliers for your wedding day. All our events offer free entry as well as the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. With dates for 2027 already announced, there’s plenty to look forward to with a number of events taking place in neighbouring counties should you wish to take a peek and spread your wings. Coming soon are wedding shows at Nutfield Priory in Redhill, Surrey and Penshurst Place, both on 8th November, and at Fennes in Bocking, Essex on 22nd November. Also, stay up to date on our Signature Shows at countyweddingevents.com unsplash.com/@rhyskentish pexels.com/@radu-daniel-mrd-1938968 8
01903 899 638 • events@cissbury.com www.cissbury.com @cissburybarns •The East Barn or The Glade for your wedding ceremony •The West Barn for your wedding breakfast and evening party •Beautiful walled gardens and stretch tent •No corkage for your post ceremony drink’s reception and wedding breakfast Tucked away on the Cissbury Estate, high on the South Downs you will find Cissbury Barns. With exclusive use of the barns, gardens and grounds, you can make the whole place your own, from the ceremony right through to the last dance. •Licenced bar, open all day •Up to 120 day guests and up to 200 evening guests •Choice of catering partners and street food suppliers •On-site accommodation Photography by Costa Weddings Photography by BeUnveiled Photography Photography by Loveheart Photography Photography by ICPhotographics Photography by Jacob Malinski Photography Photography by Flashback Photography A Wedding Venue Beyond the Ordinary A charming 16th-century coaching inn, beautifully transformed for your wedding day, nestled in the heart of East Sussex. High St, Ticehurst, Wadhurst TN5 7AS 01580 200300 • weddings@thebellinticehurst.com thebellinticehurst.com
Start Your Journey Together at The Bluebell Railway • Dine in a 1920s Pullman Carriage • Create your Close Encounter • Charter a Steam Train • Marry as you Journey Through Sussex functions@bluebell-railway.com With heritage steam trains, beautifully restored carriages and stunning scenery, Bluebell Railway is a one-of-a-kind setting for a romantic and unforgettable celebration The Bluebell Railway is a steam heritage railway running through both East and West Sussex and offers a wedding venue like no other. The steam, moving trains, beautifully restored carriages and historic stations all come together to create something immersive and a little bit different. The platforms and stations are beautifully preserved in the style of the railway’s heritage, with period details, vintage signage and plenty of character. It feels like stepping back in time, with each station offering something new. The Horsted Keynes waiting room is licensed for up to 40 guests for wedding ceremonies, while the observation carriage can accommodate 50-60 guests, subject to your catering requirements. A legal ceremony can take place in both, even on a moving train! Your wedding reception can be hosted aboard the Golden Arrow, which can seat up to 97 guests. The railway’s Pullman dining train – it’s made up of beautifully restored carriages with all the charm and character of a classic railway. With period interiors and silver-service dining, it offers a delightful setting. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something a little more formal, while still enjoying the experience of celebrating on a moving steam train. The Wealden Rambler, meanwhile, can seat up to 116 guests for afternoon tea. A more relaxed option, a traditional afternoon tea is served as you travel. It’s the ideal choice for couples who want something less formal, while losing none of the character. Find out more at bluebell-railway.com/weddings Bluebell Railway dominicsmithphotography.co.uk
At The Anchor Inn, we have found that over years where we stand out from other wedding venues is our ability to tailor each wedding to our couples specifications. We pride ourselves on not offering set packages as every Wedding is different. We simply ask each couple what can we do to make your day that extra bit special. The Anchor Inn, Anchor Lane, Barcombe, Lewes, East Sussex BN8 5EA Tel: +44 (0)1273 400414 • Email: anchorinnandboating@googlemail.com www.anchorinnandboating.com Discover The Anchor Inn & Boating, a charming riverside wedding venue offering relaxed celebrations, outdoor adventures and plenty of party potential The Anchor Inn & Boating, built in 1790, is located on the banks of the River Ouse in the heart of the picturesque Sussex countryside. At the rear of the pub, adjacent to the riverside terrace, you’ll find the venue’s marquee. Capable of seating up to 100 guests, it has its own bar and electrical hook-up for bands and DJs as well as its own dance floor, so there’s ample opportunity to party the night away. When booking to celebrate your big day here, the party field is also included, which can be used for camping, games, bonfires and fireworks. Every wedding the venue hosts is tailored to each couple’s specifications, and as it only hosts one per week, you have more than enough time to decorate the marquee according to your vision. Standard tables and chairs are included, but you also have the option to hire your own if you prefer. Find out more at anchorinnandboating.com The Anchor Inn & Boating
THE DOME WORTHING contact@domeevents.co.uk www.domeevents.co.uk 21-22 Marine Parade, Worthing Photo credits: Tilda Jean Photography, Daren Baker, Cuttlebone Photography, Raksmey Photography, Bohemian Bespoke, Champagne & Lace Enjoy vintage vibes by the sea in one of Britain’s oldest cinemas The Dome, Worthing, opened its doors in 1911, making it one of Britain’s oldest cinemas. The treasured building boasts vintage décor and original features, offering a classic choice of venue in Worthing to say, “I do”. What’s more, the fully licensed function rooms here spread across three levels and have recently been beautifully refurbished. Exchange your marriage vows in the Upper Atrium with a romantic ceremony surrounded by 60 of your loved ones, followed by post-ceremony welcome drinks of your choice in the Lower Atrium. Both spaces are located in the dome at the top of the building, boasting stunning 360-degree views across two floors. You and your guests will then move down to the larger Main Lounge on the first floor, which is an ornately decorated space complete with mirrors, a chandelier, air conditioning and a bar with access to the 17ft-wide balcony overlooking Worthing Seafront and The Pier. Here, you can enjoy a wedding breakfast for up to 90 guests, before celebrating later with an evening reception where up to 150 guests can party the night away (conditions apply). Find out more at domeevents.co.uk The Dome, Worthing Scan to view video unitedmagicstudios.co.uk darenbakerphotography.co.uk
Tie the knot in a local hotspot ALFRISTON GARDENS Berwick, BN26 5QS 01323 885 999 | alfristongardens.co.uk ALFRISTON WAR MEMORIAL HALL Alfriston, BN26 5TL 01323 870 839 alfriston-village.co.uk/awmh ALL SAINTS THE OLD CHAPEL Eastbourne, BN20 7PE 01323 728889 allsaintschapeleastbourne.org ANNE OF CLEVES HOUSE Lewes, BN7 1JA 01273 486 290 | sussexpast.co.uk ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL Forest Row, RH18 5JR 01342 824 988 | ashdownpark.com BANNATYNE SPA HOTEL St Leonards On Sea, TN38 8EA 01424 851 222 | bannatyne.co.uk BATTLE ABBEY SCHOOL Battle, TN33 0AD 07775 906 764 | battleabbeyschool.com BIG SKY TIPI HOLIDAYS Wartling, BN27 1RX 01323 832 325 | bigskytipiholidays.co.uk BLACKSTOCK ESTATE Hellingly, BN27 4HF 01323 844 006 | blackstockestate.co.uk BLUEBELL COPPICE PARK Crowhurst, TN33 9AB 01424 830 322 | bluebellcoppice.com BLUEBELL RAILWAY Uckfield, TN22 3QL 01825 720 800 | bluebell-railway.com BOWER IN THE WOOD Flimwell, TN5 7PR 07850 359 997 | thebowerinthewood.com BRIAR HOUSE BARNS LTD Crowborough, TN6 3RU 01892 853 115 | briarhousebarns.co.uk BRICKWALL HOUSE Rye, TN31 6NL 01892 517 073 | brickwallhouse.co.uk BRIGHTLING PARK Robertsbridge, TN32 5HH 07787 843 277 | brightlingpark.com BUXTED PARK HOTEL Buxted, TN22 4AY 01825 733 333 | handpickedhotels.co.uk CAVENDISH HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4DH 01323 410 222 | britanniahotels.com CHALK FARM HOTEL Willingdon, BN20 9JD 01323 503 800 | chalkfarmhotel.org CLAVERTON HOTEL Battle, TN33 0SE 01424 751 128 | clavertonhotel.co.uk CROCKSTEAD FIELDS Halland, BN8 6PT 07775 870 123 | crocksteadfields.co.uk DALE HILL HOTEL AND GOLF LTD Wadhurst, TN5 7DQ 01580 200 112 | dalehill.co.uk DE LA WARR PAVILION Bexhill-on-sea, TN40 1DP 01424 229 117 | dlwp.com EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL HOTEL Uckfield, TN22 5ES 01825 880 088 | eastsussexnational.co.uk EASTBOURNE TOWN HALL Eastbourne, BN21 4UG 0345 608 0198 | lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk EASTWOOD OBSERVATORY Herstmonceux, BN27 4QH 07517 203 091 eastwoodobservatory.co.uk FALMER COURT Falmer, BN1 9PB 01273 942 566 | falmercourt.com FIRLE PLACE Firle, BN8 6LP 07392 490 332 | firle.com EAST SUSSEX Spotlight on... HERSTMONCEUX CASTLE unsplash.com/@muster39 LOCAL VENUES 13
FLACKLEY ASH HOTEL Nr. Rye, TN31 6YH 01797 230 651 | flackleyashhotel.co.uk FLIMWELL PARK Flimwell, TN5 7FJ 01580 493 394 | flimwellpark.com FLINT BARNS Alfriston, BN26 5TU 01323 870 022 | rathfinnyestate.com FLORENCE HOUSE Seaford, BN25 4JS 01323 873 700 | florencehouse.co.uk FRICKLEY LAKE Nr Battle, TN33 9LZ 07976 704 632 | frickleylake.com GILDREDGE MANOR Eastbourne, BN20 8BB 01323 438 944 | gildredgemanor.co.uk THE GRAND HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4EQ 01323 412 345 | grandeastbourne.com GREAT OTE HALL Nr Burgess Hill, RH15 0SR 01444 232 179 | greatotehall.co.uk HASTINGS MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY Hastings, TN34 1ET 01424 451 052 | hastings.gov.uk HASTINGS TOWN HALL Hastings, TN34 1QR 01424 725 123 HAWTHBUSH FARM Heathfield, TN21 0JY 01825 212 020 HENDALL MANOR BARNS Uckfield, TN22 4BU 01825 732 561 | hendall.co.uk HERSTMONCEUX CASTLE ESTATE Hailsham, BN27 1RN 01323 833816 | herstmonceux-castle.com HOME FARM Uckfield, TN22 4BY homefarmevents.uk HOOKSTEAD Crowborough, TN6 1RH 01892 653 803 | eastsussex.gov.uk HORSTED PLACE Uckfield, TN22 5TS 01825 750 581 | horstedplace.co.uk HYDRO HOTEL Eastbourne, BN20 7HZ 01323 720 643 | hydrohotel.com LAUGHTON BARNS Laughton Road, BN8 6BN 01273 694 111 circacirca.com/laughton-barns LEWES CASTLE Lewes, BN7 1YE 01273 486 290 | sussexpast.co.uk LIMEKILN Crowborough, TN6 3HD 01892 572 572 | limekilnsussex.co.uk MANOR BARN Bexhill-on-Sea, TN40 2JA 01424 220 231 themanorbarnbexhill.co.uk MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL Forest Row, RH18 5JA 01342 822 275 | michaelhall.co.uk MICHELHAM PRIORY Upper Dicker, BN27 3QS 01323 844 224 | sussexpast.co.uk MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB Ditchling, BN6 8XJ 01273 846 567 | midsussexgolfclub.co.uk MONTAGUE FARM Pevensey, BN24 5BB 07598 920 285 weddingsatmontague.co.uk NEWHAVEN FORT Newhaven, BN9 9DS 01273 517 622 | newhavenfort.org.uk OASTBROOK ESTATES LTD Robertsbridge, TN32 5XA 07496 727 014 | oastbrook.com BRIGHTON I360 © Brighton i360 14
OTHAM COURT Polegate, BN26 6QS 01323 484 342 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk PEKES MANOR Hailsham, BN27 4AD 01323 364 630 | pekesmanor.co.uk PELHAM HOUSE Lewes, BN7 1UW 01273 488 600 | pelhamhouse.co.uk PETLEY WOOD WEDDINGS Battle, TN33 0RE 07766 102 643 petleywoodlandweddings.co.uk PLUMPTON RACECOURSE Lewes, BN7 3AL 01273 890 383 plumptonracecourse.co.uk POWDERMILLS HOTEL Battle, TN33 0SP 01424 775 511 | staycrafted.com ROEBUCK HOTEL Forest Row, RH18 5JL 01342 823 811 | greenekinginns.co.uk RYE TOWN HALL Rye, TN31 7LA 01797 223 902 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk SALTMARSH FARMHOUSE Seaford, BN25 4AD 07932 686 121 saltmarshfarmhouse.co.uk SOUTHOVER GRANGE Lewes, BN7 1TP 0345 608 0198 ceremoniesineastsussex.co.uk SOVEREIGN HARBOUR YACHT CLUB Eastbourne, BN23 5QF 01323 470888 | shyc.co.uk STONE HOUSE COUNTRY ESTATE Rushlake Green, TN21 9QJ 01435 830 553 | stonehouseevents.co.uk SWALLOWS OAST Ticehurst, TN5 7HE 01580 200 638 | swallowsoast.co.uk THE ALFRISTON Alfriston, BN26 5TW 01323 870 248 | classicbritishhotels.com THE BEAR INN BURWASH Etchingham, TN19 7ET 01435 882 540 bear-inn-hotel-burwash.co.uk THE BELL IN TICEHURST Ticehurst, TN5 7AS 01580 200 300 | thebellinticehurst.com THE CHANTRY Turners Green, TN21 9RA 01454 414 268 | thechantry.org.uk THE CHERRY BARN Rye, TN31 6XS 07796 545258 | thecherrybarn.co.uk THE GALLIVANT Camber Sands, TN31 7RB 01797 225 057 | thegallivant.co.uk THE GEORGE IN RYE Rye, TN31 7JT 01797 222114 | thegeorgeinrye.com THE GREAT HALL, ST LEONARDS ON SEA St Leonards on Sea, TN37, 6AS eastsussex.gov.uk THE LANSDOWNE HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4EE 01323 725 174 | lansdowne-hotel.co.uk DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE LOCAL VENUES 15
THE MILWARDS ESTATE Laughton, BN8 6BN 07801 477 941 | themilwardsestate.co.uk THE MONASTERY Rye, TN31 7LE 07931 765 488 | themonasteryinrye.com THE OBSERVATORY SCIENCE CENTRE Herstmonceux, BN27 1RN 01323 832 731 | the-observatory.org THE OBSERVER BUILDING Hastings, TN34 1DT 01424 230 222 theobserverbuilding.org.uk THE OLD RECTORY Hastings, TN33 5ND 01424 422 410 theoldrectoryhastings.co.uk THE PILGRIMS REST Battle, TN33 0AE 07552 873 448 | pilgrimsrestbattle.co.uk THE RELAIS COODEN BEACH Bexhill-on-sea, TN39 4TT 01424 842 281 therelaiscoodenbeach.com THE ROYAL VICTORIA HOTEL St Leonards On Sea, TN38 OBD 01424 445544 | royalvichotel.co.uk THE STAR INN Alfriston, BN26 5TA 01323 870 495 | thepolizzicollection.com THE SUSSEX BARN Hellingly, BN27 4EW 07966 614 225 weddingbarn-hellingly.co.uk THE VIEW HOTEL Eastbourne, BN21 4DN 01323 433 900 theviewhoteleastbourne.com TRADING BOUNDARIES LTD Nr Fletching, TN22 3RB 01825 790 200 | tradingboundaries.com WADHURST CASTLE Wadhurst, TN5 6DA 01892 784262 | wadhurstcastle.co.uk WELLSHURST GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Hellingly, BN27 4EE 01435 813 636 | wellshurst.com WILDERNESS WOOD Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ 01825 830 509 | wildernesswood.org WINGROVE HOUSE Alfriston, BN26 5TD 01323 870276 wingrovehousealfriston.com YORK HOUSE HOTEL Eastbourne, BN22 7AP 01323 412 918 | yorkhousehotel.co.uk Brighton & Hove BRIGHTON BANDSTAND Kings Road Arches, BN1 2LN 01273 290 394 brightonbandstandweddings.co.uk BLANCH HOUSE 17 Atlingworth Street, BN2 1PL 01273 603 504 | blanchhouse.co.uk BRIGHTON COLLEGE Eastern Road, BN2 0AL 01273 704 328 | brightoncollege.org.uk BRIGHTON HARBOUR HOTEL 60-64 Kings Road, BN1 1NA 01273 323 221 | harbourhotels.co.uk BRIGHTON I360 Lower Kings Road, BN1 2LN 0333 772 0360 | brightoni360.co.uk BRIGHTON PIER Madeira Drive, BN2 1TW 01273 609 361 | brightonpier.co.uk BRIGHTON TOWN HALL Bartholomews, BN1 1JA 01273 292 016 | brighton-hove.gov.uk THE BELL IN TICEHURST rachaelbarronphotography.co.uk 16
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE Kings Road, BN1 2FU 01273 775 432 | hilton.com DUKE OF YORK PICTURE HOUSE Preston Circus, BN1 4NA 01273 818 549 | picturehouses.com HOLIDAY INN BRIGHTON - SEAFRONT 137 Kings Road, BN1 2JF 01273 329 744 | ihg.com HOTEL DU VIN 3-7 Ship Street, BN1 1AD 01273 718588 | hotelduvin.com LEONARDO ROYAL HOTEL BRIGHTON WATERFRONT Kings Road, BN1 2GS 01273 206 700 | leonardohotels.co.uk MALMAISON BRIGHTON Brighton Marina, BN2 5WA 01273 679 799 | malmaison.com MERCURE BRIGHTON SEAFRONT HOTEL 149 Kings Road, BN1 2PP 01273 225 502 | malmaison.com PROUD CABARET 83 St Georges Road, BN2 1EF 01273 605 789 | proudprivatehire.com SALTDEAN LIDO Saltdean Park Road, BN2 8SP 01273 751 515 | saltdeanlido.co.uk STANMER HOUSE Stanmer Park, BN1 9QA 01273 680 400 | stanmerhouse.uk SUSSEX COUNTY CRICKET CLUB Eaton Road, Hove, BN3 3AN 01273 827 100 | sussexcricket.co.uk THE AMERICAN EXPRESS COMMUNITY STADIUM Village Way, BN1 9BL 01273 542 343 prestigevenuesandevents.sodexo.com THE BRITISH ENGINEERIUM The Droveway, Hove, BN3 7QA 01273 557 972 thebritishengineerium.com THE GRAND HOTEL 97-99 Kings Road, BN1 2FW 01273 321188 | grandbrighton.co.uk THE HOVE CLUB 38 Fourth Avenue, Hove, BN3 2PJ 01273 730 872 | thehoveclub.com THE OLD SHIP HOTEL Kings Road, BN1 1NR 01273 329 001 | oldshipbrighton.co.uk THE ROYAL PAVILION Brighton, BN1 1EE 01273 292815 | brightonmuseums.org.uk THE SEAHORSE Kings Road Arches, BN1 2LN 01273 206 523 | seahorsebrighton.co.uk THE SECRET GARDEN Corner Of Bristol Gardens and Bristol Place, BN2 3RS 07727 112 132 secretgardenkemptown.co.uk LIMEKILN mlindhansen.com LOCAL VENUES 17
The Instagram effect ON WEDDING VENUES How social media is reshaping the industry In an era where a single photograph can reach millions of viewers within hours, wedding venues are experiencing a seismic shift in how they attract couples and showcase their spaces. Instagram has evolved from a simple photo-sharing app into the most powerful marketing tool the wedding industry has ever seen and it’s fundamentally changing what couples look for in a venue. We spoke with Nick from Country House Weddings (countryhouseweddings. co.uk) to explore how social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok is reshaping venue selection, design, and the entire wedding experience. THE RISE OF INSTAGRAM-WORTHY VENUES “Ten years ago, couples primarily chose venues based on capacity, location, and price,” explains Nick “Today, the first question whether said or not is really: ‘How Instagram-worthy is it?’. The visual appeal of a space has become just as important, and sometimes more important than traditional practical considerations.” This shift reflects a broader change in how couples approach their weddings. The ceremony and reception are no longer private family affairs but shareable content that will be viewed, liked, and commented on by hundreds to thousands of people. As a result, venues with distinctive architectural features, dramatic backdrops, and photogenic details have seen demand skyrocket. “Country houses, venues with statement staircases, and spaces with abundant natural light are particularly popular,” Nick notes. “These environments photograph beautifully and provide those ‘wow’ moments that translate perfectly to social media, without overwhelming the couple.” HOW VENUES ARE ADAPTING TO INSTAGRAM CULTURE Smart venue owners are responding to this Instagram-driven demand by strategically enhancing their spaces with social media in mind. According to Nick, this goes far beyond simply having pretty spaces. “To accommodate, many spaces have invested in designated ‘photo opportunities’ throughout the properties,” he explains. “This might be a swing hanging from an ancient oak tree or a flower wall that’s refreshed seasonally. These aren’t just decorative, rather they’re carefully designed Instagram moments that if well done, look completely natural and spontaneous.” THE POWER OF USER-GENERATED CONTENT Perhaps the most significant impact of Images sourced from unsplash.com 18
Instagram on wedding venues is the rise of user-generated content as a marketing powerhouse. Traditional advertising has been largely replaced by the authentic images newlyweds share from their big- day celebrations. “When a couple posts photos from their wedding and tags our venue, they’re essentially providing a testimonial to their entire network,” says Nick. “That organic reach is invaluable. We’ve had couples book with us purely because they saw a friend’s wedding photos on Instagram and fell in love with the space.” Many venues now actively encourage this user-generated content by creating unique hashtags, offering incentives for tagging the venue, and even featuring couples’ photos on their official accounts. This creates a symbiotic relationship: couples get the pleasure of being featured on a popular wedding venue account, while venues benefit from fresh, authentic content that resonates with prospective couples. THE PRESSURE TO PERFORM: WHEN INSTAGRAM EXPECTATIONS MEET REALITY While Instagram has created tremendous opportunities for venues, it has also introduced new challenges and pressures. Nick is candid about the potential downsides. “We’ve noticed that some couples spend so much time planning for the perfect Instagram shots that they forget to actually enjoy their wedding,” he observes. “There’s pressure to recreate specific aesthetics they’ve seen online, sometimes at the expense of what they genuinely want or what works best for their celebration.” “Our role has evolved to include managing these expectations,” Nick explains. “We show couples how to achieve beautiful photos while maintaining authenticity and ensuring they don’t sacrifice the experience for the content.” SEASONAL AESTHETICS AND TRENDING STYLES Instagram has dramatically accelerated the pace of wedding trend cycles. Styles that once remained popular for years now shift seasonally, driven by what’s currently performing well on social media. “We’ve seen rustic barn weddings give way to minimalist industrial spaces, which then evolved into romantic garden parties, and now we’re in an era of maximalist, moody aesthetics,” notes Nick. “Each shift is directly traceable to what’s trending on Instagram and other visual platforms.” The most successful venues, according to Nick, are those with classic, versatile spaces that can be dressed to match current trends rather than those locked into a specific style. THE DEMOCRATISATION OF VENUE DISCOVERY On the positive side, Instagram has democratised venue discovery in ways that benefit both couples and venues. Previously, couples typically found venues through traditional advertising, wedding fairs, or word-of-mouth recommendations, which heavily favoured established venues with large marketing budgets. “Instagram has levelled the playing field,” says Nick. “A smaller, boutique venue with beautiful spaces and strong visual content can now compete with major established venues.” SOCIAL MEDIA 19
VIRTUAL VENUE TOURS AND DIGITALFIRST EXPERIENCES Instagram has also transformed how couples initially explore venues. The traditional approach of booking in-person tours of multiple locations has been supplemented and sometimes replaced by digital discovery. “Couples now typically do extensive Instagram research before even contacting us,” Nick explains. “They’ve already ‘experienced’ the venue through our feed, stories, highlights, and reels. By the time they reach out, they have a clear vision of whether our space fits their aesthetic.” It also requires savvy venues to keep their social media game strong and vibrant. THE ECONOMICS OF INSTAGRAMDRIVEN DEMAND The Instagram effect has had tangible economic impacts on wedding venues. Properties that successfully leverage social media have seen significant increases in booking inquiries. This creates a new challenge: venues must continuously invest in creating fresh, engaging content to maintain visibility in Instagram’s algorithm-driven environment, requiring ongoing resources for photography, content creation, and social media management. INFLUENCER WEDDINGS AND ASPIRATIONAL CONTENT The rise of influencer culture has created a new category of high-profile weddings that serve as both personal celebrations and branded content opportunities. For venues, hosting an influencer wedding can provide unprecedented exposure. “When we host a wedding for a couple with a significant social media following, we know that kind of exposure would cost a fortune in traditional advertising. Some venues even offer discounted rates to influencers specifically for this marketing.” But this dynamic also raises questions about authenticity and the commercialisation of weddings. The line between personal celebration and content creation becomes blurred when sponsors, product placements, and promotional partnerships enter the picture. LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND VENUES As social media continues to evolve, Nick anticipates further changes in how venues market themselves and what couples prioritise. “We’re already seeing a shift toward video content with the rise of TikTok and Instagram reels,” he notes. “Venues need to think beyond static images and consider how their spaces translate to short-form video. We’re also noticing a counter-movement of couples who want ‘unplugged’ weddings where guests aren’t constantly on their phones. The pendulum may swing back toward more private, intimate celebrations.” Nick also predicts that virtual and augmented reality tools will become more sophisticated, potentially allowing couples to virtually ‘walk through’ venue spaces and visualise their weddings before booking. This could further reduce the need for in-person venue visits while raising expectations for accessible digital presentation. FINDING BALANCE IN THE DIGITAL AGE “Instagram has fundamentally transformed the wedding venue industry, mostly for the better,” concludes Nick. “The most successful weddings are those where couples use Instagram for inspiration and venue discovery but ultimately make choices based on what feels right for them. A beautiful Instagram feed is wonderful, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of genuine connection, personal meaning, or the joy of being present in your own celebration.” 20
findonmanor.com/weddings WEDDINGS HIGH ST, FINDON, WORTHING BN14 T: 01903 872733 E: HOTEL@FINDONMANOR.COM WWW.FINDONMANOR.COM Celebrate YOUR SPECIAL DAY WITH US AT FINDON MANOR Findon Manor is set within 2 acres of beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Worthing. Offering multiple options for your wedding day we will be sure to accommodate your needs. From intimate celebrations to a marquee which holds up to 300 people we have something for everyone. Please contact us to arrange a visit and discuss all your wedding needs. AVAILABLE PACKAGES START FROM £99PP EXCLUSIVE & NON-EXCLUSIVE PACKAGES Wedding_ADVERT_ findon.indd 1 29/01/2024 09:38 ©James Pike Weddings & Civil Ceremonies - Brighton & Hove Museums weddings@rpmt.org.uk • 01273 071 312 A T ul Histori Da – Wedding a th Roya Pavilio
At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area. All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day. All shows 11am - 3pm (unless otherwise stated) AUTUMN 2026 WEDDING SHOWS COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS WHERE LOVE MEETS PERFECTION! COUNTY WEDDING EVENTS ESSEX LAYER MARNEY TOWER LAYER MARNEY, COLCHESTER, CO5 9US SUNDAY 18 OCT 2026 FENNES FENNES EST, BOCKING, CM7 5PL SUNDAY 22 NOV 2026 SURREY NUTFIELD PRIORY NUTFIELD ROAD, REDHILL, RH1 4EL SUNDAY 8 NOV 2026 TUDOR BARN BRITWELL ROAD, BURNHAM, SL1 8DF SUNDAY 25 OCT 2026 BUCKINGHAMSHIRE follow us on Facebook Follow our social media pages to keep up to date with our upcoming events! follow us on Instagram
KENT BRADBOURNE HOUSE NEW ROAD, EAST MALLING, ME19 6DZ SUNDAY 1 NOV 2026 HERTFORDSHIRE WARE PRIORY HIGH STREET, WARE, SG12 9AL SUNDAY 25 OCT 2026 PENSHURST PLACE PENSHURST, TN11 8DG SOUTH FARM SHINGAY-CUM-WENDY, SG8 0HR SUNDAY 1 NOV 2026 SUNDAY 8 NOV 2026 12pm - 4pm ATTEND OUR SHOWS Our events are hosted in some of the regions’ best wedding venues, giving you the opportunity to explore the properties first-hand; while our larger Signature Wedding Shows are hosted in iconic venues such as Bluewater, Ascot Racecourse and Mercedes-Benz World. Welcoming newly engaged couples looking to plan their wedding days, each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on-hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; from venues and bridal boutiques to photographers and performers, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés (venue permitting), there will be ample show discounts and offers from our exhibitors, and a competition to win your honeymoon – what’s not to love? Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on-the-day visitors are always welcome, what’s more attending our shows are free!
Signature • Free entry • Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Huge number of wedding specialists including venues • Demonstration areas • Competitions • Entertainment • Refreshments • And more... www.countyweddingevents.com/signature-events WEDDING SHOWS SUNDAY 18TH APRIL 2027 ASCOT RACECOURSE High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JX 11am-3pm SPRING 2027 TO BE ANNOUNCED MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL 11am-3pm SPRING 2027 TO BE ANNOUNCED BLUEWATER Bluewater Pkwy, Dartford, DA9 9ST 11am-3pm
Pre-register for all of our events at www.countyweddingevents.com X Sarah Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to the next wedding show season – perfect for all those couples recently engaged. From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day. Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof. On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés. Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free! For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. Sarah Ellis, Managing Director Ellis Media and Events Ltd. A date for your diary... GREAT EXPECTATIONS ASCOT RACECOURSE 18TH APRIL 2027 BLUEWATER TO BE ANNOUNCED MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD TO BE ANNOUNCED
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PINK Think Since they now reside in Australia, it was important to Megan and Kian to have a quintessentially British wedding day Images courtesy of VP Photography Megan and Kian met when Megan was travelling around Australia with her best friend, Lauryn, a family friend of Kian’s. The two went to stay with Kian and his family while on the Gold Coast and the rest, as they say, is history. Kian proposed in iconic fashion in Paris beneath the Eiffel Tower with Christmas lights twinkling around them. When the time came to look for a wedding venue, the couple set out to find somewhere with a quintessentially English vibe and plenty of outdoor space. They were also hoping to find a setting with natural beauty that didn’t require too much dressing up and One Garden Brighton fit the bill. Briefed on the pink palette, the florist created beautiful pink bouquets using a myriad of gorgeous flower varieties. The centrepieces featured mini bud vases containing blooms cut at different heights for a textured appearance. The table decor included pink runners and mini disco balls as a nod to Kian’s career as a DJ. Meanwhile, the wedding stationery was also designed in keeping with the pink and white palette. The couple made sure no one went hungry throughout the day, serving a picnic-style buffet during the welcome drinks reception, followed by a hog roast wedding breakfast. A pizza truck arrived in the evening to stave off hunger ready for a night of partying. Going into the planning process, Megan was looking for a wedding dress with a simple silhouette – thin straps, low back and a long veil. “But when I tried this style on, it felt too plain and not bridal enough,” she explains. The British summer wedding vibe was particularly important to the couple since they now live in Australia, so she changed tack to look for something more suited. “I tried on Prim by MWL Bridal and fell in love,” she says. “It felt so regal, beautiful and timeless.” Kian wore a tuxedo by Bruno’s Suits based on the Gold Coast, while his party hired theirs from Moss. The bridesmaids all wore different dress styles in various shades of pink, giving the palette some depth. A string quartet played beautifully as guests arrived, setting the perfect romantic tone, and continued performing throughout the ceremony and drinks reception. As guests mingled in the grounds, the children could entertain themselves with garden games in the sunshine. A DJ took over the entertainment reins in the evening. For both Megan and Kian, the highlight of their day was laying eyes on each other for the first time from opposite ends of the aisle. “It was magical,” Megan remembers. “And seeing all of our loved ones together and dressed up was lovely.” Before we part, the bride has some useful words of wisdom to impart. “Trust your gut and do whatever you want to do,” she says. “It’s your day, but there’ll be lots of opinions throughout the planning process. Plan the day how you want it to be, not how you think you should.” REAL WEDDINGS 27
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ROLL CREDITS Venue, One Garden Brighton, onegardenbrighton.com | Photographer, VP Photography, vpphotography.pics | Dress and veil, MWL Bridal | Groom’s suit, Bruno’s Suits | Groomsmen’s suits, Moss | Bridesmaids’ dresses, Azazie | Wedding rings, Cullen Jewellery, cullenjewellery.com | Makeup artist, Izzy Milne Hair & Makeup, izzymilnemua.com | Cake, Pommy Bakes, @pommybakes Flowers, Ginger Lily Florists, gingerlilyflorists.co.uk | Transport, Haywards Carriages, haywardscarriages.co.uk | Entertainment, Mint DJs, mintdjs.co.uk | Rigaudon Music, lastminutemusicians.com/members/rigaudonmusic.html | Catering, Simply Hog Roast, simplyhogroast.co.uk | Siena Pizza Co, sienapizzaco.co.uk 30
Wood Fired Pizza Catering for Weddings Your wedding food should feel effortless, generous, and unforgettable. Our wood fired pizza van brings theatre, atmosphere, and restaurant quality pizza directly to your venue. Whether you are planning a full wedding breakfast alternative or a relaxed evening celebration feast, we provide handcrafted pizza catering designed specifically for weddings. We cater across Sussex, Surrey, London, Kent & Hampshire , working with rustic barns, marquees, country houses, private estates, and outdoor venues. From formal sit down main meal service to lively evening food that keeps the dance floor full, our wedding packages are built around your timeline. 07863 997063 • Marco@sienapizzaco.co.uk https://sienapizzaco.co.uk
TWO WEDDINGS Emma and Ryan met at a friend’s wedding and before they knew it, it was time to plan their own! Images courtesy of Aby Joanne Photography A tale of 32
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Emma and Ryan met at a friend’s wedding. When Ryan decided to propose he put the perfect plan into action and popped the question on a boat while on holiday in Rhodes, Greece. The couple fell in love with Southend Barn’s secret garden, as they had their hearts set on marrying al fresco. The flow of the venue beautifully matched their vision for their day. They attended a styling event at Southend Barns to see how ideas could come together in real life and were inspired by a black and gold palette they saw there. They also found themselves completely won over by the in-house florist. On the day, the bride wore a gorgeous Stella York gown, while the groom looked dapper in a three-piece, black tie Ted Baker ensemble. His groomsmen were dressed to complement him in the two-piece version of the same suit. 34
After the ceremony, guests were treated to mouth-watering canapés of bruschetta, Dutch beef croquettes and slow-cooked duck tacos. The wedding breakfast was served a little later on, when everyone sat down to a main course of roast chicken with Sussex mushrooms and dauphinoise potatoes with pancetta, sugar snap peas and a tarragon velouté. Dessert was a delicious white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake with honey and marmalade ice cream. A harpist welcomed guests before the ceremony and continued to wow them with her ethereal sounds during the drinks reception. As celebrations moved into the evening, a DJ took over, filling the dance floor. “The weather was perfect and we were thrilled to be able to marry outside,” Emma remembers. “But our favourite part of the day was the evening with all our guests dancing and the surprise saxophonist playing on the dance floor.” We asked the bride for her top wedding-planning tips. “Try to enjoy the process,” she says. “Once you’ve found your dream venue, look on their socials to help pick suppliers who’ve been to the venue before to get ideas or recommendations.” REAL WEDDINGS 35
THE W-DAY TEAM Venue, Southend Barns, southendbarns.co.uk Photographer, Aby Joanne Photograpy, abyjoannephotography.co.uk | Dress, Isabella Grace, isabellagracebridal.com | Suits, Moss Wedding rings, Ernest Jones and Goldsmiths Hair stylist, Sarah Elizabeth Hair and Makeup, @sarahelizabeth_hairmakeup Makeup artist, Ellie Parkhurst, @beautybyellieparkhurst | Cake, Jayjays Whippped Up Cakes, @jayjayswhippedupcakes | Flowers, Lucy at Southend Barns | Entertainment, Toast Live, toastlive.co.uk | Catering, Roots Catering at Southend Barns 36
Your wedding deserves to be personal 07525 084 850 • www.bloomingreatflorist.co.uk Where flowers make you smile Kaleido Weddings and Tom Cullen Photography.
Follow us on /CountyWeddingEvents @CountyWedEvent @countyweddingevents SUNDAY 18TH APRIL 2027 11am to 3pm High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX IN ASSOCIATION WITH A BerkshireSignature wedding show at HOSTED AT Ascot Racecourse www.countyweddingevents.com One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England. A huge number of wedding specialists on hand to inspire and advise on how to bring your wedding dreams to life. Plus! • Special offers on the day • The chance to win a luxury honeymoon • Entertainment • Refreshments and more...
Wisteria-inspired elegance with a subtle nod to Bridgerton Images courtesy of ICPhotographics WISTERIA Inspired by the wisteria in the gardens at Field Place Manor House & Barns, this styled shoot was created for couples looking to celebrate their wedding day with elegance and meaningful design. “Our vision was to create a shoot that felt both refined and achievable, allowing the venue’s character and landscaped grounds to take centre stage,” says shoot coordinator Amanda from Field Place. “Every element was carefully curated to demonstrate how timeless design can feel fresh, modern and deeply personal.” Using the wisteria as the starting point, with a subtle nod to Bridgerton, the team chose a soft palette of greens and neutral tones to complement the venue’s natural surroundings. Luxurious textures, abundant seasonal florals and elegant stationery add depth and romance throughout the styling. The ceremony styling enhances the venue’s existing features with flowing drapery and chandeliers. Meanwhile, the team created an inviting tablescape layered with fine linens, refined place settings and delicate glassware for the reception. “Every detail was selected to encourage couples to think beyond individual decorative items and instead create a cohesive atmosphere that reflects their own personalities,” Amanda continues. Above all, the shoot celebrates the creativity found in Sussex’s wedding industry and demonstrates how a trusted, collaborative team of suppliers can transform a beautiful venue into an unforgettable wedding experience, whether it is for an intimate celebration or a larger gathering. Wistful LOCAL SHOOT 39
www.your-sussex.weddingRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=